July 3, 2024
Baricci, producing pure and regal Brunello's
Montosoli is arguably the most coveted site in Montalcino, and Baricci Colombaio Montosoli, or simply Baricci, has long been a pioneer of this sub-region. Long before the concept of a cru or the fame of Montosoli was confirmed, Nello Baricci recognised the unique potential of this location. When the time came for this son of sharecroppers to acquire his own land, it was Montosoli that he chose.
This small hill on the village's north side enjoys a unique micro-climate, remaining drier in wet seasons and cooler during hot ones. The soil, rich in marl and galestro, combined with the northern location and traditional winemaking techniques, produces wines of remarkable purity and refinement. This terroir, characterised by a unique mix of rock, minerals, and marine fossils, is key to the estate's exceptional wines.
The estate's fifteen hectares, reaching up to 280 meters in elevation with south-to-southeast exposure, are considered the prime parcel of the hill. This terroir, distinct from the rest of Montalcino, is truly a unique cru.
Photo: Montosoli Hill
The Baricci family has been producing wine here since the 1950s, under the guidance of the legendary Nello Baricci. In the 1960s, he pioneered the use of temperature-controlled, stainless steel fermenting vats in Montalcino, masterfully blending innovation with tradition. Interestingly, today Baricci is considered one of the most traditional Brunello producers. Alongside other notable names like Soldera and Stella di Campalto, Baricci focuses on fruit purity. Their wines are layered, pure, and exude a certain class. When young, they exhibit a remarkable tension, and with age, their layers and complexities unfold beautifully. Today, his grandchildren, Francesco Buffi in the vineyard and Federico Buffi in the cellar, continue the legacy.
It's long been reported that 2019 was a fantastic vintage in Brunello and it’s being compared to the highly esteemed 2016 vintage. In 2019 Baricci produced a fantastic wine layered with complexities that keeps you coming back for more when tasting it. Score-wise, the Baricci scores are amongst the highest in the 2019 vintage, earning 98 points from Kerin O'Keefe and 97 points from Vinous.
Baricci Brunello di Montalcino 2019
98 Points | Kerin O'keefe
The captivating Baricci 2019 Brunello is another gorgeous wine from this storied producer. It offers enticing scents of woodland berry, new leather, camphor, pipe tobacco and dog rose while the full-bodied, elegantly structured palate delivers juicy Morello cherry, red plum, licorice and cake spice before a flinty mineral finish. A backbone of tight, refined tannins and fresh acidity provide support and racy tension. While it’s still youthfully austere, it already shows great balance and precision.
97 Points | Vinous, Eric Guido
The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is youthfully inward and darkly floral with an herbal tinge and hints of crushed ashen stone that give way to vivid black raspberry and exotic spice. This is juicy and spry, with racy cherry-berry fruit and stimulating acidity that creates a sensation of boundless energy, even as a saturation of primary concentration settles in toward the close. The 2019 finishes with incredible length and youthful tension, leaving balsamic spice, sage and licorice notes lingering over a bed of dusty tannins.
Baricci Rosso di Montalcino 2022
Fine Wine Library Tasting Note:
The 2022 Baricci Rosso di Montalcino opens with aromas of ripe cherries, wild strawberries, roses, and thyme. On the palate, it is lively and refined, featuring juicy red berries, a touch of cedar, and earthy undertones. Silky tannins and a mineral streak add depth. The finish is medium-long with lingering notes of red currants, lavender, and autumnal spice. This vintage excels in purity and finesse whilst offering a sneak peek of what you might get from the bigger brother Brunello.
See all available wines from Baricci.